Hundreds of Hindu zealots scaled the disputed Babri Masjid in 1992 and knocked it down, triggering a cycle of communal violence that claimed more than 3,000 lives. The controversial razing was the culmination of a festering dispute between Muslims and many Hindus, who believe the Mughal emperor Babur razed a temple at the site believed to be the birthplace of Hindu god, Ram. The demolition also buoyed the BJP to power in Uttar Pradesh and in other Hindi heartland states.

Adityanath’s visit comes nearly two-and-a-half months after the Supreme Court’s suggestion that the Ayodhya dispute be resolved amicably with Chief Justice of India JS Khehar offering to mediate to help resolve the matter.

The chief minister will also attend the week-long birth celebrations of Ram Janmabhoomi Nyas president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das and meet seers in the town. The Nyas is a trust dedicated to promoting and overseeing the construction of the temple in Ayodhya.

Led by Adityanath, the BJP government took charge in the state after the recent assembly election. After the installation of the first BJP government in the state in 1991, CM Kalyan Singh had also led his ministry for a ‘darshan’ of Ram Lala at the disputed site.

After landing at Faizabad on Wednesday, the Adityanath will reach the Hanuman Garhi Temple and later go for a ‘darshan’ of Ram Lala. He will also visit the ‘Ram Ki Pairi’ at the Saryu and will interact with BJP workers and office bearers at Awadh University.

The chief minister will also review development projects with the officers there. Adityanath will visit the Digambar Akhara and Deen Bandhu Eye Hospital as well.